Cinnamon, Ceylon

Botanical Name: Cinnamomum verum

Flavor: Warm, Sweet, Subtle, with Floral, Fruity, and Citrus notes

Origin: Sri Lanka

Use With: Beef, Chicken, Pork, Lamb, Fish, Seafood, Vegetables, Candies, Sweets, Desserts, and Baked Goods

Description: Often called ‘True’ Cinnamon, Sri Lankan Cinnamon, or Canela, Ceylon Cinnamon is produced from the inner layers of bark of young Cinnamomum trees that are native only to the island country of Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon) just off the southern tip of India. Ceylon Cinnamon sticks (or quills) are camel colored and made up of many thin, soft layers, making them brittle and have the appearance of tightly rolled ancient parchment. Whether whole or ground, when compared to the more common Cassia Cinnamon, Ceylon Cinnamons flavor is more subtle and sweet, it is less sharp and spicy, more delicate, and complex, with very subtle citrus and floral notes. Its flavor (and aroma) has less of a ‘bite’ and is less ‘forward’ than Cassia Cinnamon, so its flavor does not compete with or overpower other flavors. Ceylon Cinnamon’s subtle nature makes it the best choice for dishes (especially desserts) that you want a dainty, sweeter, hint of cinnamon rather than it to take center stage and deliver a punch in the tastebuds.

Suggested Uses:

• Add whole Ceylon Cinnamon sticks (and remove before serving) to marinades, sauces, soups, stocks, stews, and braises to infuse with a subtle, warming, savory flavor and aroma
• Use whole Ceylon Cinnamon sticks in mulled wine and sider, or use as a ‘stir stick’ in tea, coffee, hot chocolate, or warm milk for a warming, comforting addition
• Use ground Ceylon Cinnamon to flavor baked goods like cinnamon rolls, muffins, cookies, and sweet beads
• Use with apples, peaches, pears, and berries for hearty pies, crumbles, and cobblers
• Use to add depth and complexity to curries, chile, and other savory dishes
• Add to dry rubs and seasoning blends for meats, poultry, fish, seafood, and vegetables for the grill or roasting
• Sprinkle a bit over your eggnog, a fruit smoothie, applesauce, fruit salads, or anywhere else you want to add a delicious, sweet touch of warmth.